Russia deems US military presence in Afghanistan unacceptable

Russia has strongly condemned any potential return of U.S. military forces to Afghanistan, specifically the possibility of reopening Bagram Air Base, calling such moves “categorically unacceptable.” The statement was made by Zamir Kabulov, the Russian President’s special representative for Afghanistan and senior adviser to the Russian Foreign Ministry, in an interview with RIA Novosti.

Kabulov emphasized that Moscow opposes the establishment of any U.S. or NATO military infrastructure on Afghan soil or in neighboring regions, under any pretext. He also expressed hope that the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, would share Russia’s stance on the issue.

Kabulov’s remarks came in response to growing concerns regarding the U.S. military’s presence in the Middle East, particularly amid rising tensions with Iran. There have been reports suggesting that the U.S. might seek access to Bagram Air Base again as part of a strategic pivot in the region.

Recalling the previous administration under former U.S. President Donald Trump, Kabulov noted that the U.S. had persistently sought to regain control of Bagram Air Base following its chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. “There is nothing new in these demands,” Kabulov stated, referring to the ongoing push by the U.S. to re-establish a military foothold in the region.

Russia’s firm stance reflects its broader geopolitical concerns regarding the influence of the U.S. and NATO near its borders, particularly in Central Asia and Afghanistan.